Psalms - Application
King David is my hero. His Psalms have been a mainstay in my life for many years. Through them I have found my identity! My sacred pathway/point of passion, has been defined by such psalms as 27, 45, and 84.
"The one thing I ask of the Lord–-
the thing I ask most–
is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life . . ."
"Kings’ daughters are among your noble women . . ."
"A single day in Your courts
is better than a thousand elsewhere . . ."
In them I find courage to be steadfast, repentant, victorious over spiritual enemies, faithful, patiently waiting, and most of all to grow in love with God.
This was a wonderful week for me. I feel like I received a kaleidoscope showing me just exactly what "a man after God’s own heart" looks like. I was deeply encouraged and blessed.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Psalm 84 Revisited
Psalm 84 Revisited
How awesome is Your mansion,
Oh, Lord of infinite power.
I’m beside myself with longing
To simply get to the entryway of Your courtyard!
With outstretched arms and head lifted high,
I shout and cry and my praise to You.
Even the smallest bird finds shelter,
And she nests and takes care of her young
at the place you dwell, Your very altar,
Oh God of Might, Very God of Very God!
What an absolute thrill to think of actually living in Your house,
Basking in Your presence.
To think of how You make us strong, is joy unspeakable,
We can now make our pilgrimage to Your holy city in confidence.
When we pilgrims walk though difficult times,
Whoa! These very trials will seem like a sparkling spring of water.
The latter rains will cover us with blessings,
And we will never cease growing in strength,
Each of us will seeing You in Jerusalem.
O Lord of Might, hear me.
Yes, listen O God of our fathers.
Lord, please bless the king who is our protector!
Manifest yourself to the one whose beard drips with the oil of anointing.
It’s true, just one day in Your presence
Is better than life itself, anywhere on earth!
For me, to be your gatekeeper would be everything
And more I couldn’t ask, for I would never want to be anywhere else.
For You, Lord, are our Brightest Star, and great protector.
You give us unmerited favor and unaccountable favor.
You embarrass us with Your generosity
Towards those who do the right thing.
Oh Yahweh of great might,
What wonders are ours who depend on You for everything we need.
How awesome is Your mansion,
Oh, Lord of infinite power.
I’m beside myself with longing
To simply get to the entryway of Your courtyard!
With outstretched arms and head lifted high,
I shout and cry and my praise to You.
Even the smallest bird finds shelter,
And she nests and takes care of her young
at the place you dwell, Your very altar,
Oh God of Might, Very God of Very God!
What an absolute thrill to think of actually living in Your house,
Basking in Your presence.
To think of how You make us strong, is joy unspeakable,
We can now make our pilgrimage to Your holy city in confidence.
When we pilgrims walk though difficult times,
Whoa! These very trials will seem like a sparkling spring of water.
The latter rains will cover us with blessings,
And we will never cease growing in strength,
Each of us will seeing You in Jerusalem.
O Lord of Might, hear me.
Yes, listen O God of our fathers.
Lord, please bless the king who is our protector!
Manifest yourself to the one whose beard drips with the oil of anointing.
It’s true, just one day in Your presence
Is better than life itself, anywhere on earth!
For me, to be your gatekeeper would be everything
And more I couldn’t ask, for I would never want to be anywhere else.
For You, Lord, are our Brightest Star, and great protector.
You give us unmerited favor and unaccountable favor.
You embarrass us with Your generosity
Towards those who do the right thing.
Oh Yahweh of great might,
What wonders are ours who depend on You for everything we need.
Forget Not
Forget Not
I look at life, my glass half full
And think that all is well;
When in my heart distractions dwell,
Lord, forget not my soul’s desire . . .
I dwell in love of earthly life,
I rarely count the cost;
In all the pain that other’s paid,
Lord, forget not my heart’s desire . . .
I hope to be your faithful child,
Yet cherish peaceful meadows;
Oh, to be Your faithful bride!
Lord! Forget not my deep desire!
I look at life, my glass half full
And think that all is well;
When in my heart distractions dwell,
Lord, forget not my soul’s desire . . .
I dwell in love of earthly life,
I rarely count the cost;
In all the pain that other’s paid,
Lord, forget not my heart’s desire . . .
I hope to be your faithful child,
Yet cherish peaceful meadows;
Oh, to be Your faithful bride!
Lord! Forget not my deep desire!
1 & 2 Samuel
1 & 2 Samuel
What do you see in this book that tells you of the original reader? First and Second Samuel is believed to be written sometime after the reign of King Solomon when the nation of Israel was split between the 10 northern tribes, called "Israel," and the two southern tribes, referred to as "Judah" around 925 BC.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? It is probable that Samuel wrote the first part of 1 Samuel and that Nathan and Gad the rest. All kept records as is stated in I Chronicles 29:29 "All the events of King David’s reign, from beginning to end, are written in The Record of Samuel the Seer, The Record of Nathan the Prophet, and The Record of Gad the Seer." Many think the prophet Gad was most likely the author because he was close to David and was familiar with his Psalms.
What are the main themes, repeated ideas, and "main idea?" Because Israel rejected God has King for an earthly king, the Lord is in the picture much less than He was under the judges. More and more the free will of the people are determining the outcome for the nation and this, basically, is the main idea. Repeated ideas and themes are God raising up and tearing down leadership according to the level of obedience. Fear of man and fear of God, humility and presumption, are also themes and ideas in which draw many contrasts between Saul and David.
What is the primary reason this book was written? To show the readers that kings will fail without God’s intervention. Hopefully the accounts of both Saul and David would have been both instructive and encouraging especially at the time the split of the Kingdom was taking place.
What does the book show about the character and nature of God? God weighs all He has said and all He has done in accordance with His covenant. People are evaluated by the law recorded in these books and their character is weighed against the covenant. God is true. And He is gracious in the face of disappointment and failure. So much is seen of God’s character through David who continually seeks God and readily admits dismal failure. 2 Samuel 12:13.
What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? Never again was Israel ruled by Judges, and the kings that followed were often as unstable as King Saul. Samuel is considered a type of Christ in that he was a prophet, priest, and judge. Many of the Psalms show foreshadowings of the future Messiah, but I didn’t see anything specifically in 1 & 2 Samuel.
Personal application: I believe that from the garden to David, there was not a man who trusted God, loved God, or communicated with God, like the man David. He sounds so much like a man who is living the New Covenant before its time . . . This is why King David so appeals to me. He had a revelation of God so rare in his time when the Spirit of God did not yet live in man, but only revealed Himself to man at certain times. So when I see David’s failures and successes, I have such hope. The man after God’s own heart is not perfect. But he is absolutely true to God in his humanity. He accepts all the blessings and all the chastening. He understands the heart of God. Everything David had with God is what I want: "One thing have I desired of the Lord and that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord, all the days of my life; to behold the beauty of the Lord, and inquire in his temple." Psalm 27:4.
Point of Passion: The portion of Psalm 27 above best describes the prerequisites for an intercessor. Desire for the Lord, a seeking heart, to live in the presence of the Lord, beholding His attributes, and to know His heart. These name my greatest desires . .
What do you see in this book that tells you of the original reader? First and Second Samuel is believed to be written sometime after the reign of King Solomon when the nation of Israel was split between the 10 northern tribes, called "Israel," and the two southern tribes, referred to as "Judah" around 925 BC.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? It is probable that Samuel wrote the first part of 1 Samuel and that Nathan and Gad the rest. All kept records as is stated in I Chronicles 29:29 "All the events of King David’s reign, from beginning to end, are written in The Record of Samuel the Seer, The Record of Nathan the Prophet, and The Record of Gad the Seer." Many think the prophet Gad was most likely the author because he was close to David and was familiar with his Psalms.
What are the main themes, repeated ideas, and "main idea?" Because Israel rejected God has King for an earthly king, the Lord is in the picture much less than He was under the judges. More and more the free will of the people are determining the outcome for the nation and this, basically, is the main idea. Repeated ideas and themes are God raising up and tearing down leadership according to the level of obedience. Fear of man and fear of God, humility and presumption, are also themes and ideas in which draw many contrasts between Saul and David.
What is the primary reason this book was written? To show the readers that kings will fail without God’s intervention. Hopefully the accounts of both Saul and David would have been both instructive and encouraging especially at the time the split of the Kingdom was taking place.
What does the book show about the character and nature of God? God weighs all He has said and all He has done in accordance with His covenant. People are evaluated by the law recorded in these books and their character is weighed against the covenant. God is true. And He is gracious in the face of disappointment and failure. So much is seen of God’s character through David who continually seeks God and readily admits dismal failure. 2 Samuel 12:13.
What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? Never again was Israel ruled by Judges, and the kings that followed were often as unstable as King Saul. Samuel is considered a type of Christ in that he was a prophet, priest, and judge. Many of the Psalms show foreshadowings of the future Messiah, but I didn’t see anything specifically in 1 & 2 Samuel.
Personal application: I believe that from the garden to David, there was not a man who trusted God, loved God, or communicated with God, like the man David. He sounds so much like a man who is living the New Covenant before its time . . . This is why King David so appeals to me. He had a revelation of God so rare in his time when the Spirit of God did not yet live in man, but only revealed Himself to man at certain times. So when I see David’s failures and successes, I have such hope. The man after God’s own heart is not perfect. But he is absolutely true to God in his humanity. He accepts all the blessings and all the chastening. He understands the heart of God. Everything David had with God is what I want: "One thing have I desired of the Lord and that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord, all the days of my life; to behold the beauty of the Lord, and inquire in his temple." Psalm 27:4.
Point of Passion: The portion of Psalm 27 above best describes the prerequisites for an intercessor. Desire for the Lord, a seeking heart, to live in the presence of the Lord, beholding His attributes, and to know His heart. These name my greatest desires . .
Friday, October 18, 2013
Ruth
Ruth
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? It is a story about faithfulness in a time in history when Israel was anything but faithful. The genealogy in Ruth 4:18-22 places the readers living in the time of David’s early reign.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Jewish tradition points to Samuel as the author of Ruth, but it is argued that because Samuel died before David’s coronation as King it could have been someone else that is unknown. , I still think Samuel could easily be the author as there were years between the anointing of David to be king, and his actual coronation. Yet, whoever wrote it, it is a beautifully written story and was crafted with care by the author.
Main themes, repeated ideas and main idea: The main idea is redemption. Even more is the impact of kinsman redeemer which has the further meaning of buying back what was lost which in this story meant land as well marriage in order to father a child that would have another man’s name. Another theme is kindness which is another way of stating the meaning of "covenant loyalty," Ruth 1:8; 2:20; 3:10. The providence of God is another repeated idea. God’s purposes are obvious as He chooses faithful people in an unfaithful generation to continue the linage of the promised Redeemer.
What is the primary reason this book was written? It is a glorious pause in a time that was fraught with rebellion and disobedience. A simple story in a time of chaos. And while the book of Ruth is a piece of important history that includes the genealogy of the future Messiah, it is also about a woman who forsook the false gods of her country to align herself with the one true God.
What does this book show about the nature and character of God? God’s faithfulness to those who seek Him is very prominent in this story. Ruth shows her commitment to the God of Israel, and the God of Israel shows His commitment to her. And very swiftly orchestrates a wonderful plan for her life!
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? Boaz is a perfect example of what a kinsman redeemer is. He takes care of his own people, has compassion on the stranger, acts quickly to a need, and seeks to do right at all times. Boaz truly foreshadows Jesus in a wonderful way; "I have learned how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the Lord the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done." God honors those who honor Him. Ruth 2:11-12.
Personal Application: Of all the books of the Bible, it is the Book of Ruth and Song of Solomon that have affected most, my relationship with Jesus Christ. In Ruth, a gentile, comes the revelation of the One True God. She trusts her mother-in-law, and shows great courage to, in an indirect way, propose marriage to Boaz. Reading this lovely story again has renewed my romance with Another Boaz, my Kinsman Redeemer. May my heart and life reflect that of Ruth. "You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me . . ." "Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." Ruth 2:13 and Ruth 3:9
Point of Passion: The book of Ruth is a love story. No point of passion will carry one through without love for God because it is God’s passion that must work through us to others. In prayer, this love must be evident or our prayers are in vain.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? It is a story about faithfulness in a time in history when Israel was anything but faithful. The genealogy in Ruth 4:18-22 places the readers living in the time of David’s early reign.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Jewish tradition points to Samuel as the author of Ruth, but it is argued that because Samuel died before David’s coronation as King it could have been someone else that is unknown. , I still think Samuel could easily be the author as there were years between the anointing of David to be king, and his actual coronation. Yet, whoever wrote it, it is a beautifully written story and was crafted with care by the author.
Main themes, repeated ideas and main idea: The main idea is redemption. Even more is the impact of kinsman redeemer which has the further meaning of buying back what was lost which in this story meant land as well marriage in order to father a child that would have another man’s name. Another theme is kindness which is another way of stating the meaning of "covenant loyalty," Ruth 1:8; 2:20; 3:10. The providence of God is another repeated idea. God’s purposes are obvious as He chooses faithful people in an unfaithful generation to continue the linage of the promised Redeemer.
What is the primary reason this book was written? It is a glorious pause in a time that was fraught with rebellion and disobedience. A simple story in a time of chaos. And while the book of Ruth is a piece of important history that includes the genealogy of the future Messiah, it is also about a woman who forsook the false gods of her country to align herself with the one true God.
What does this book show about the nature and character of God? God’s faithfulness to those who seek Him is very prominent in this story. Ruth shows her commitment to the God of Israel, and the God of Israel shows His commitment to her. And very swiftly orchestrates a wonderful plan for her life!
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? Boaz is a perfect example of what a kinsman redeemer is. He takes care of his own people, has compassion on the stranger, acts quickly to a need, and seeks to do right at all times. Boaz truly foreshadows Jesus in a wonderful way; "I have learned how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the Lord the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done." God honors those who honor Him. Ruth 2:11-12.
Personal Application: Of all the books of the Bible, it is the Book of Ruth and Song of Solomon that have affected most, my relationship with Jesus Christ. In Ruth, a gentile, comes the revelation of the One True God. She trusts her mother-in-law, and shows great courage to, in an indirect way, propose marriage to Boaz. Reading this lovely story again has renewed my romance with Another Boaz, my Kinsman Redeemer. May my heart and life reflect that of Ruth. "You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me . . ." "Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." Ruth 2:13 and Ruth 3:9
Point of Passion: The book of Ruth is a love story. No point of passion will carry one through without love for God because it is God’s passion that must work through us to others. In prayer, this love must be evident or our prayers are in vain.
Judges
Judges
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? From several references, the original people were those who currently were under the reign of a King. "In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes." Judges 21:25. The natural conclusion is that the people in Israel under the reign of either King Saul or King David were reading or hearing these accounts.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Jewish tradition states that Samuel was the author and he is the most likely as he would probably have access to the oral and written stories of these times. In other words, his time of life was a natural link between the period of the Judges and the period of the Kings.
Main themes, repeated ideas, main idea: The main idea would be God’s infinite grace in the face of such rebellion and idolatry his people were involved in. Seven cycles of apostasy, oppression, and cries for deliverance are recorded in Judges. The Israelites failure to conquer all the people in Canaan was a repeated event, as well. "You were not to make any covenants . . you were to destroy their altars . . . they (people of Canaan) will be thorns in your sides . . . and their gods will be a constant temptation to you." Judges 2:1-3. And this is exactly what happened.
What was the primary reason the book was written? These 350 years prior to the time Israel became a nation was to recount the stories of Israel’s heroes, called judges. SourceView. It was to have been "The Golden Age" of the Israelite nation. This was a theocracy and their chance to obey all God’s commands to be blessed. But sadly, the stories do not confirm that in Chapters 17-21. There were a few victories in battle, and peace in the land for periods of time, but most of the laws God set in place were disobeyed even to the point of degradation. This book can be looked at as "pro-king" literature which could very well be the case if Samuel was the author of the book. The book shows the Israelites who are reading this manuscript, that they cannot make it . . .
What does the book show about the nature and character of God? God shows his gracious love to Israel in His many deliverances: "Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!" "Go with the strength you have . . . I am sending you!" "I will be with you. And you will destroy the Midianites as if you were fighting against one man." "I will stay until you return." "Do not be afraid. You will not die" Judges 6:11-23. He Keeps His covenant in the face of forgetfulness and failure. He honors man’s freedom and will redeem even less than noble motives. (Samson and his final defeat of the Philistines). Judges 17.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind?
Oddly enough, there seems to a Christofany in the book of Judges. One is God’s conversation with both Manoah and his wife Hannah about the birth of a son who would be Samuel. Manoah asks the angel of the Lord His name. God replies; "Why do you ask my name? It is too wonderful for you to understand." Judges 13:18.
Personal application: More times than I want to admit, I have asked myself, "How many times will I go around this mountain?" In other words, how many time will it take to learn the lesson God wants me to learn? We are so "prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love." And then cry; Take my heart Lord, take and heal it, seal it for Thy courts above." These stories are not so shocking. The AOL home page is filled with them everyday as I sign in to read my email. We are a fallen human race. The miracle is that God strives with us. Yes, there will be an end, but for us who have embraced the second Covenant, there is hope, glorious hope!
Point of Passion: With God, nothing is impossible. We can pray in any place at any time and in situations and circumstances that seem to us impossible. But God was present during these times of Israel’s apostasy. If He is present in times such as those, His presence is with us now in this generation. Indeed, He ". . . is too wonderful to understand."
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? From several references, the original people were those who currently were under the reign of a King. "In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes." Judges 21:25. The natural conclusion is that the people in Israel under the reign of either King Saul or King David were reading or hearing these accounts.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Jewish tradition states that Samuel was the author and he is the most likely as he would probably have access to the oral and written stories of these times. In other words, his time of life was a natural link between the period of the Judges and the period of the Kings.
Main themes, repeated ideas, main idea: The main idea would be God’s infinite grace in the face of such rebellion and idolatry his people were involved in. Seven cycles of apostasy, oppression, and cries for deliverance are recorded in Judges. The Israelites failure to conquer all the people in Canaan was a repeated event, as well. "You were not to make any covenants . . you were to destroy their altars . . . they (people of Canaan) will be thorns in your sides . . . and their gods will be a constant temptation to you." Judges 2:1-3. And this is exactly what happened.
What was the primary reason the book was written? These 350 years prior to the time Israel became a nation was to recount the stories of Israel’s heroes, called judges. SourceView. It was to have been "The Golden Age" of the Israelite nation. This was a theocracy and their chance to obey all God’s commands to be blessed. But sadly, the stories do not confirm that in Chapters 17-21. There were a few victories in battle, and peace in the land for periods of time, but most of the laws God set in place were disobeyed even to the point of degradation. This book can be looked at as "pro-king" literature which could very well be the case if Samuel was the author of the book. The book shows the Israelites who are reading this manuscript, that they cannot make it . . .
What does the book show about the nature and character of God? God shows his gracious love to Israel in His many deliverances: "Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!" "Go with the strength you have . . . I am sending you!" "I will be with you. And you will destroy the Midianites as if you were fighting against one man." "I will stay until you return." "Do not be afraid. You will not die" Judges 6:11-23. He Keeps His covenant in the face of forgetfulness and failure. He honors man’s freedom and will redeem even less than noble motives. (Samson and his final defeat of the Philistines). Judges 17.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind?
Oddly enough, there seems to a Christofany in the book of Judges. One is God’s conversation with both Manoah and his wife Hannah about the birth of a son who would be Samuel. Manoah asks the angel of the Lord His name. God replies; "Why do you ask my name? It is too wonderful for you to understand." Judges 13:18.
Personal application: More times than I want to admit, I have asked myself, "How many times will I go around this mountain?" In other words, how many time will it take to learn the lesson God wants me to learn? We are so "prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love." And then cry; Take my heart Lord, take and heal it, seal it for Thy courts above." These stories are not so shocking. The AOL home page is filled with them everyday as I sign in to read my email. We are a fallen human race. The miracle is that God strives with us. Yes, there will be an end, but for us who have embraced the second Covenant, there is hope, glorious hope!
Point of Passion: With God, nothing is impossible. We can pray in any place at any time and in situations and circumstances that seem to us impossible. But God was present during these times of Israel’s apostasy. If He is present in times such as those, His presence is with us now in this generation. Indeed, He ". . . is too wonderful to understand."
Joshua
Joshua
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? This is a new generation who has just promised Joshua they would be faithful. I think they meant this will all their hearts . . . "We will do whatever you command us, and we will go wherever you send us. We will obey you just as we obeyed Moses." Joshua 1:16.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? From the very onset of this book, God is encouraging Joshua. "Be strong and very courageous . . . Studythis book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it." In Joshua 1:7-8 God is putting His faith in this man. At the end of the book, Joshua 23:1-24:14, you see Joshua as steadfast as ever repeating what he spoke to the Israelites from the beginning of their quest. He points out God’s faithfulness to them, "Deep in your hearts you know that every promise of the Lord your God has come true."
The internal evidence that Joshua is the author is in Joshua 24:26. "Joshua recorded these things in the Book of God’s Instructions. As a reminder of their agreement . . ." Probably the best praise given concerning Joshua is recorded at the very end of chapter 24; "The people of Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him–those who had personally experienced all that the Lord had done for Israel."
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. Conquering and occupying Canaan is the main idea of this book. Reading the ingenious strategies God used for doing this is like watching the Narnia movies! In each of the city-states God orders the Israelites to conquer, there were particulars. God has reasons for everything He ordered them to do. Another main idea was setting the specific boundaries for each tribes allotted territory. Repeated many times are the words of God to Joshua to "be strong and courageous." Joshua reminded the people continually of the blessings of obedience to God and the repercussions of disobedience.
What is the primary reason this book was written? "Joshua records the transition of the Israelites, from a nation of desert nomads, to the conquest of their promised land. It shows how the lands were divided among Israel’s 12 tribes and reminds the nation that they owed their existence to God." SourceView. The land allotted for this nation was occupied by people whose pagan beliefs and lifestyle were abhorrent to God. While the Israelites were promised a homeland, the homeland needed purging from the despicable sins polluting the land.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? God desires a holy nation, one that would receive His blessings in abundance. His generous nature is for all peoples who desired to align themselves with Him-- exemplified by the story of Rahab who sided with God and became part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. God’s holiness is expressed again at both the beginning and the end of the possession of Canaan. The blessings of obedience and the perils of disobedience are evident in this book as they were in the Pentateuch.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? First, that God would deliver his people . . . "When Joshua was near the town of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with sword in hand. ‘Are you friend or foe?’ "Neither one, I am the commander of the Lord’s army. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy." Joshua 5:13-15. Jesus was there! The scarlet cord Rahab placed out the window was the sign of her deliverance just as Jesus’ blood is ours. Joshua, himself (his name being the same as Yeshua or Jesus), is a foreshadowing of the Savior to come.
Personal application: I have been searching my own heart regarding how faithful I would have been to God if I had been one of the Israelites in this time of history. It is tempting to think I would remain faithful, but I think this on the other side of God’s shed blood for me; on the other side where forgiveness of sins has been made by the Perfect Sacrifice and the promised Comforter, the very Spirit of Christ Himself is living inside me. Even within the New Covenant, I fail. These books of the Pentateuch, as well as the book of Joshua, are very telling. Telling not only the story of those long ago strugglers, but revealing my hapless devotion to God. This inspires me to think again of the final end of this Story and it’s impact on the world, and on me.
Point of Passion: Joshua instructs, instructs, instructs. God encourages, encourages, encourages. God meets man so that man can meet God and walk with Him again as Adam and Eve walked with Him im the Garden. Again, a call to intercession is very much like this. God using us to pray that His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? This is a new generation who has just promised Joshua they would be faithful. I think they meant this will all their hearts . . . "We will do whatever you command us, and we will go wherever you send us. We will obey you just as we obeyed Moses." Joshua 1:16.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? From the very onset of this book, God is encouraging Joshua. "Be strong and very courageous . . . Studythis book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it." In Joshua 1:7-8 God is putting His faith in this man. At the end of the book, Joshua 23:1-24:14, you see Joshua as steadfast as ever repeating what he spoke to the Israelites from the beginning of their quest. He points out God’s faithfulness to them, "Deep in your hearts you know that every promise of the Lord your God has come true."
The internal evidence that Joshua is the author is in Joshua 24:26. "Joshua recorded these things in the Book of God’s Instructions. As a reminder of their agreement . . ." Probably the best praise given concerning Joshua is recorded at the very end of chapter 24; "The people of Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him–those who had personally experienced all that the Lord had done for Israel."
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. Conquering and occupying Canaan is the main idea of this book. Reading the ingenious strategies God used for doing this is like watching the Narnia movies! In each of the city-states God orders the Israelites to conquer, there were particulars. God has reasons for everything He ordered them to do. Another main idea was setting the specific boundaries for each tribes allotted territory. Repeated many times are the words of God to Joshua to "be strong and courageous." Joshua reminded the people continually of the blessings of obedience to God and the repercussions of disobedience.
What is the primary reason this book was written? "Joshua records the transition of the Israelites, from a nation of desert nomads, to the conquest of their promised land. It shows how the lands were divided among Israel’s 12 tribes and reminds the nation that they owed their existence to God." SourceView. The land allotted for this nation was occupied by people whose pagan beliefs and lifestyle were abhorrent to God. While the Israelites were promised a homeland, the homeland needed purging from the despicable sins polluting the land.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? God desires a holy nation, one that would receive His blessings in abundance. His generous nature is for all peoples who desired to align themselves with Him-- exemplified by the story of Rahab who sided with God and became part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. God’s holiness is expressed again at both the beginning and the end of the possession of Canaan. The blessings of obedience and the perils of disobedience are evident in this book as they were in the Pentateuch.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? First, that God would deliver his people . . . "When Joshua was near the town of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with sword in hand. ‘Are you friend or foe?’ "Neither one, I am the commander of the Lord’s army. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy." Joshua 5:13-15. Jesus was there! The scarlet cord Rahab placed out the window was the sign of her deliverance just as Jesus’ blood is ours. Joshua, himself (his name being the same as Yeshua or Jesus), is a foreshadowing of the Savior to come.
Personal application: I have been searching my own heart regarding how faithful I would have been to God if I had been one of the Israelites in this time of history. It is tempting to think I would remain faithful, but I think this on the other side of God’s shed blood for me; on the other side where forgiveness of sins has been made by the Perfect Sacrifice and the promised Comforter, the very Spirit of Christ Himself is living inside me. Even within the New Covenant, I fail. These books of the Pentateuch, as well as the book of Joshua, are very telling. Telling not only the story of those long ago strugglers, but revealing my hapless devotion to God. This inspires me to think again of the final end of this Story and it’s impact on the world, and on me.
Point of Passion: Joshua instructs, instructs, instructs. God encourages, encourages, encourages. God meets man so that man can meet God and walk with Him again as Adam and Eve walked with Him im the Garden. Again, a call to intercession is very much like this. God using us to pray that His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The children of Israel have left Mt. Sinai and are now on the very brink of entering the promised land. The old generation has died, this new generation has a chance at a brand new start. Moses says; "The Lord heard the request you made to me. And He said, ‘I have heard what the people said to you, and they are right. Oh, that they would always have hearts like this, that they might fear me and obey all my commands!" Deuteronomy 5:28. The people were in a good place to begin again!
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Most of this book is Moses’ words, his final words, to the generation that will go in and possess the land. He rehearses much of the history from the time of deliverance from Egypt. The book was written around 1406 BC.
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. There are several repeated themes in Deuteronomy; blessing, obedience, disobedience, cursing, victory over enemies, remembering the past and passing on all these things to future generations. The main idea; Moses urging a new generation to move forward with God. SourceView.
What is the primary reason this book was written? Moses challenged Israel to obey the Lord faithfully and reject all forms of idolatry–a call to the new generation to renew formally the earlier covenant with God that their parents had broken. SourceView. "Take to heart all the words of warning I have given you today. Pass them on as a command to your children so they will obey every word of these instructions. These instructions are not empty words–they are your life!" Deuteronomy 32:46.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? In Numbers 11 is the account when Moses in his anger struck the rock twice when the Israelites wanted water. It seems that this act violated a foreshadowing of Jesus’ crucifiction and death. And even the pole lifted up with the snake on it fore- shadows His resurrection. In Deuteronomy is part 2 of this event when Moses again asks God for permission to enter the promised land. The reply is heart-rending but one in which we can learn from; "For both of you betrayed me with the Israelites at the waters of Meribah at Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin. You failed to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel there. So you will see the land from a distance, but you may not enter the land I am giving to the people of Israel." Deuteronomy 32:51. How important to God is His word, even the cloaked words that will be understood generations later.
Personal application: I relate to this book of a "new beginning. I am always in need of new beginnings myself. In fact, every morning is a new beginning! Yet, I have had significant renewals in my heart and life several times and they were certainly "new beginnings." I am convinced I have been born again at least three times so far! The book of Deuteronomy was familiar territory in that regard. God’s compassion and long suffering was exemplified in Moses song, his final discourse to the children of Israel: "How blessed you are, O Israel! Who else is like You, a people saved by the Lord? He is your protecting shield and your triumphant sword!" Deuteronomy 33:29. While this is written to a nation, it is true of His character today. And His protecting shield and triumphant sword is wielded for us all. It is wielded for me . . .
Point of Passion: My point of passion for the book of Deuteronomy is simply the great desire to thoroughly get the Bible inside me as a work of passion for the remainder of my life.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The children of Israel have left Mt. Sinai and are now on the very brink of entering the promised land. The old generation has died, this new generation has a chance at a brand new start. Moses says; "The Lord heard the request you made to me. And He said, ‘I have heard what the people said to you, and they are right. Oh, that they would always have hearts like this, that they might fear me and obey all my commands!" Deuteronomy 5:28. The people were in a good place to begin again!
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Most of this book is Moses’ words, his final words, to the generation that will go in and possess the land. He rehearses much of the history from the time of deliverance from Egypt. The book was written around 1406 BC.
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. There are several repeated themes in Deuteronomy; blessing, obedience, disobedience, cursing, victory over enemies, remembering the past and passing on all these things to future generations. The main idea; Moses urging a new generation to move forward with God. SourceView.
What is the primary reason this book was written? Moses challenged Israel to obey the Lord faithfully and reject all forms of idolatry–a call to the new generation to renew formally the earlier covenant with God that their parents had broken. SourceView. "Take to heart all the words of warning I have given you today. Pass them on as a command to your children so they will obey every word of these instructions. These instructions are not empty words–they are your life!" Deuteronomy 32:46.
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? In Numbers 11 is the account when Moses in his anger struck the rock twice when the Israelites wanted water. It seems that this act violated a foreshadowing of Jesus’ crucifiction and death. And even the pole lifted up with the snake on it fore- shadows His resurrection. In Deuteronomy is part 2 of this event when Moses again asks God for permission to enter the promised land. The reply is heart-rending but one in which we can learn from; "For both of you betrayed me with the Israelites at the waters of Meribah at Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin. You failed to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel there. So you will see the land from a distance, but you may not enter the land I am giving to the people of Israel." Deuteronomy 32:51. How important to God is His word, even the cloaked words that will be understood generations later.
Personal application: I relate to this book of a "new beginning. I am always in need of new beginnings myself. In fact, every morning is a new beginning! Yet, I have had significant renewals in my heart and life several times and they were certainly "new beginnings." I am convinced I have been born again at least three times so far! The book of Deuteronomy was familiar territory in that regard. God’s compassion and long suffering was exemplified in Moses song, his final discourse to the children of Israel: "How blessed you are, O Israel! Who else is like You, a people saved by the Lord? He is your protecting shield and your triumphant sword!" Deuteronomy 33:29. While this is written to a nation, it is true of His character today. And His protecting shield and triumphant sword is wielded for us all. It is wielded for me . . .
Point of Passion: My point of passion for the book of Deuteronomy is simply the great desire to thoroughly get the Bible inside me as a work of passion for the remainder of my life.
Numbers
Numbers
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The original readers seem to be the last remnant of the survivors of the exodus and the emerging generation that is present during the time this book was written. The children of Israel are just about ready to enter Canaan after 40 years in the wilderness. The date is around 1406 BC.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? SourceView, again, says it well. "He wrote [Numbers], to document their story, a story of their past to shape their future, to show God’s judgement against sin, in the context of His constant faithfulness and patience with His beloved Israel."
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. "The theme of divine judgment on unbelief is prominent in Numbers . . ." God judges Israel and 40 years of wandering ensues. But the book of Numbers also "testifies to the grace and mercy of God and points forward to the divine grace to be displayed in Jesus Christ." SourceView. The main idea is preparation.
What is the primary reason this book was written? In this book, Moses recorded four areas of their wandering life for posterity. These are outlined quite well for us in Nelson’s book of maps. First are two sets of numberings, the first being at Mt. Sinai in chapter one, and the second on the plains of Moab in chapter 26. The second is the record of failure covered in chapters 10 through 25. Failure of the leaders to lead and failure of the old generation to follow. The third area was the preparation of a new generation covered in chapters 26 through 30. And the final area is the conquest and division of Israel in chapters 31 through 36.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? Yes, God is very specific in His instructions governing the lives of His people–a people meant to be set apart from all others. He is protecting them, teaching them, revealing Himself to them through feasts that celebrate the goodness of God and life. Despite the failures of Moses, Aaron and Miriam, and the madness of the dying generation who traveled from Egypt, God cares, forgives, starts over, and over, and over again. Balaam asks: "But how can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I condemn those whom the Lord has not condemned? I see them from the cliff tops; I watch them from the hills. I see a people who live by themselves, set apart from other nations . . ." Numbers 23:8-9
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? God’s plan of redemption which was hinted at in Geneis 3, is still going forward. The temple set up, the feasts, the sacrifices, the Nazarite vow which provides a chance for anyone to draw near to God–these all point to the Second Covenant that is yet to come. "So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!" Numbers 21:9.
Personal application: It takes a lifetime to be thankful in all things and trust God in every situation. I can easily see myself in this rebellious generation that came out of Egypt. But I would like to see myself becoming more like Joshua, more like Caleb. As we plowed through this book, I found myself thinking in odd moments, "These details are very important to God. They reveal who He is and how He wants us to understand Him. They reveal His never changing desire; to have a people. To have friends. To have me."
Point of Passion: Sometimes I don’t know how to pray into a situation and as a result become hesitant to pray! Reading the intercession Moses had with God over the rebellion of the Israelites showed me that I shouldn’t worry about this kind of thing! Praying is what God wants us to do at all times and in all places. Even when we pray according to our finite understanding, if we have the right heart, He will know what we mean. "God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?" Numbers 23:18.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The original readers seem to be the last remnant of the survivors of the exodus and the emerging generation that is present during the time this book was written. The children of Israel are just about ready to enter Canaan after 40 years in the wilderness. The date is around 1406 BC.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? SourceView, again, says it well. "He wrote [Numbers], to document their story, a story of their past to shape their future, to show God’s judgement against sin, in the context of His constant faithfulness and patience with His beloved Israel."
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea. "The theme of divine judgment on unbelief is prominent in Numbers . . ." God judges Israel and 40 years of wandering ensues. But the book of Numbers also "testifies to the grace and mercy of God and points forward to the divine grace to be displayed in Jesus Christ." SourceView. The main idea is preparation.
What is the primary reason this book was written? In this book, Moses recorded four areas of their wandering life for posterity. These are outlined quite well for us in Nelson’s book of maps. First are two sets of numberings, the first being at Mt. Sinai in chapter one, and the second on the plains of Moab in chapter 26. The second is the record of failure covered in chapters 10 through 25. Failure of the leaders to lead and failure of the old generation to follow. The third area was the preparation of a new generation covered in chapters 26 through 30. And the final area is the conquest and division of Israel in chapters 31 through 36.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? Yes, God is very specific in His instructions governing the lives of His people–a people meant to be set apart from all others. He is protecting them, teaching them, revealing Himself to them through feasts that celebrate the goodness of God and life. Despite the failures of Moses, Aaron and Miriam, and the madness of the dying generation who traveled from Egypt, God cares, forgives, starts over, and over, and over again. Balaam asks: "But how can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I condemn those whom the Lord has not condemned? I see them from the cliff tops; I watch them from the hills. I see a people who live by themselves, set apart from other nations . . ." Numbers 23:8-9
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? God’s plan of redemption which was hinted at in Geneis 3, is still going forward. The temple set up, the feasts, the sacrifices, the Nazarite vow which provides a chance for anyone to draw near to God–these all point to the Second Covenant that is yet to come. "So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!" Numbers 21:9.
Personal application: It takes a lifetime to be thankful in all things and trust God in every situation. I can easily see myself in this rebellious generation that came out of Egypt. But I would like to see myself becoming more like Joshua, more like Caleb. As we plowed through this book, I found myself thinking in odd moments, "These details are very important to God. They reveal who He is and how He wants us to understand Him. They reveal His never changing desire; to have a people. To have friends. To have me."
Point of Passion: Sometimes I don’t know how to pray into a situation and as a result become hesitant to pray! Reading the intercession Moses had with God over the rebellion of the Israelites showed me that I shouldn’t worry about this kind of thing! Praying is what God wants us to do at all times and in all places. Even when we pray according to our finite understanding, if we have the right heart, He will know what we mean. "God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?" Numbers 23:18.
Leviticus
Leviticus
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The wash basins had just been filled with water; curtains had just been hung in the courtyard; "So at last Moses finished the work. Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle . . ." Exodus 40: 30-34. The Israelites are now at the foot of Mt. Sinai and God called Moses up on the mountain to receive the law. SourceView words it very well; "It was a vital time to train them to listen, obey, and to learn to function as a people without the influences of other nations and their ways . . . God gave these instruction so they could build their lives and their nation on strong foundations.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Like Genesis and Exodus, the authorship has always been believed to be Moses written around 1440 BC. "Then the Lord said to Moses;" resounds throughout the entire book so it makes total sense that with Moses’ credentials of literacy and knowledge, this book would naturally follow Genesis and Exodus.
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea: The main themes were, I believe, the laws God laid down for all the Israelites would need to know in order to be holy "because I, the Lord your God is holy." This with accompanying promises; "If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands... the land will yield its crops. . . your will live in peace . . . all your enemies will fall beneath your sword. Leviticus 26: 3-6. Repeated ideas are obedience to the laws just as they were given with specific sacrifices given, banishment or even death ordered for disobedience. For me, the main idea is the heart-rending dream of God; "I will live among you, and I will not despise you. I will walk among you [Garden of Eden before the fall?]; I will be your God, and you will be my people . . . I broke the yoke of slavery from your neck so you can walk with your heads held high."
What is the primary reason this book was written? I believe this book was written to give Israel an identity that had long been lost after 400+ years of slavery. To make her into a nation in which "all other nations will be blessed." The laws and ordinances and Tabernacle offerings and sacrifices were all for this end. After Aaron’s sons had offered strange fire to God and were burned to death, Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the Lord meant when he said, ‘I will display my holiness through those who come near me. I will display my glory before all the people.’" Leviticus 10:3.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? One of the delights this book held for me that I noticed right away, was that God is a God of order! The beauty, the orderliness, the functionality, the movability, and the work ability of the Tabernacle was perfect. It was the fitting stage for Part 2, The Law. Now the offerings and sacrifices the Israelites would make had a stage, a place. The written law could be read and reflected upon. It would continually realign infringements that crept into the camp. God was safeguarding His people for the purpose of blessing them. Again, SourceView says it well in reviewing the remarks Moses makes to the people: "to purify you" Leviticus 8:24; "to make you right with God" Leviticus 9:7; "so the glory of the Lord may appear to you." Leviticus 9:5.
Personal application: It is a wonderful thing to be 65 years old. This book that was "what you got through to get to Judges," is altogether different for me as I get older but more than that, as I attend this remarkable class. The heart of God shows through more clearly as we listen to Moses with his first listeners "the following instructions to the entire community of Israel." While we are now under the Second Covenant, this First Covenant is our teacher. I feel this deeply as I read these laws of life and limb. They remind me that I am called to a Holy Nation. I was meant to "walk with my head held high." I weep for joy for the laws of God that are no longer dictated from tablets of stone, but by the power of the Spirit of God indwelling in us throughThe Final Sacrifice.
Point of Passion: God has strived with humanity a long, long time as far as earth time goes. Again, these books are showing me God’s passion to have a people. His first plan was to bless the world through one nation. Yet the very founder of that nation, Abraham, ends up being the founder of a second nation that was grafted on to the first, a nation who claims, not blood, but faith. For every passion we will ever express for the Lord, we need Abraham’s faith. Faith to sacrifice our Isaac’s on the alter of burnt offering. This book is a reminder of that. Is it ever! Salvation has come to us through much blood, and while Isaac’s blood was spared, Jesus’ blood was not. We were bought with a price. Sacrifice is with us still.
Cindy Patrick
DBS Fall Quarter 2013
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The wash basins had just been filled with water; curtains had just been hung in the courtyard; "So at last Moses finished the work. Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle . . ." Exodus 40: 30-34. The Israelites are now at the foot of Mt. Sinai and God called Moses up on the mountain to receive the law. SourceView words it very well; "It was a vital time to train them to listen, obey, and to learn to function as a people without the influences of other nations and their ways . . . God gave these instruction so they could build their lives and their nation on strong foundations.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Like Genesis and Exodus, the authorship has always been believed to be Moses written around 1440 BC. "Then the Lord said to Moses;" resounds throughout the entire book so it makes total sense that with Moses’ credentials of literacy and knowledge, this book would naturally follow Genesis and Exodus.
Main themes, repeated ideas, and main idea: The main themes were, I believe, the laws God laid down for all the Israelites would need to know in order to be holy "because I, the Lord your God is holy." This with accompanying promises; "If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands... the land will yield its crops. . . your will live in peace . . . all your enemies will fall beneath your sword. Leviticus 26: 3-6. Repeated ideas are obedience to the laws just as they were given with specific sacrifices given, banishment or even death ordered for disobedience. For me, the main idea is the heart-rending dream of God; "I will live among you, and I will not despise you. I will walk among you [Garden of Eden before the fall?]; I will be your God, and you will be my people . . . I broke the yoke of slavery from your neck so you can walk with your heads held high."
What is the primary reason this book was written? I believe this book was written to give Israel an identity that had long been lost after 400+ years of slavery. To make her into a nation in which "all other nations will be blessed." The laws and ordinances and Tabernacle offerings and sacrifices were all for this end. After Aaron’s sons had offered strange fire to God and were burned to death, Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the Lord meant when he said, ‘I will display my holiness through those who come near me. I will display my glory before all the people.’" Leviticus 10:3.
What does this book show about the character and nature of God? One of the delights this book held for me that I noticed right away, was that God is a God of order! The beauty, the orderliness, the functionality, the movability, and the work ability of the Tabernacle was perfect. It was the fitting stage for Part 2, The Law. Now the offerings and sacrifices the Israelites would make had a stage, a place. The written law could be read and reflected upon. It would continually realign infringements that crept into the camp. God was safeguarding His people for the purpose of blessing them. Again, SourceView says it well in reviewing the remarks Moses makes to the people: "to purify you" Leviticus 8:24; "to make you right with God" Leviticus 9:7; "so the glory of the Lord may appear to you." Leviticus 9:5.
Personal application: It is a wonderful thing to be 65 years old. This book that was "what you got through to get to Judges," is altogether different for me as I get older but more than that, as I attend this remarkable class. The heart of God shows through more clearly as we listen to Moses with his first listeners "the following instructions to the entire community of Israel." While we are now under the Second Covenant, this First Covenant is our teacher. I feel this deeply as I read these laws of life and limb. They remind me that I am called to a Holy Nation. I was meant to "walk with my head held high." I weep for joy for the laws of God that are no longer dictated from tablets of stone, but by the power of the Spirit of God indwelling in us throughThe Final Sacrifice.
Point of Passion: God has strived with humanity a long, long time as far as earth time goes. Again, these books are showing me God’s passion to have a people. His first plan was to bless the world through one nation. Yet the very founder of that nation, Abraham, ends up being the founder of a second nation that was grafted on to the first, a nation who claims, not blood, but faith. For every passion we will ever express for the Lord, we need Abraham’s faith. Faith to sacrifice our Isaac’s on the alter of burnt offering. This book is a reminder of that. Is it ever! Salvation has come to us through much blood, and while Isaac’s blood was spared, Jesus’ blood was not. We were bought with a price. Sacrifice is with us still.
Cindy Patrick
DBS Fall Quarter 2013
Exodus
Exodus
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The most obvious thing would be the descriptions in the first 19 chapters describing the Israelites journey from bondage to deliverance. These chapters could well have been written for the new generation that was entering Canaan –the old having died within the time of the 40 year sojourn in the desert.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Just about everything! God speaks to Moses at great length and he witnesses God’s love, wisdom and understanding in helping set up rulings that he, Moses, will be able to use as he leads his people. Moses’ faithfulness and bravery to face God is very moving. His personal hurt when the Israelites continually show their lack of faith and understanding of God are indicative of how much Moses seeks to honor God and yet at the same time plead God’s forgiveness of his people’s waywardness.
What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the "main idea?" The laws are repeated twice–the first time by God, then by the narrator, Moses. Themes like keeping the Sabbath, the order of the tabernacle, faithfully relating events to future generations, God’s rescuing them from oppression are oft repeated themes. I borrow from SourceView the main idea; "God unfolds a nation’s destiny."
What is the primary reason this book was written? To set in motion a life of worship (tabernacle), and laws to bring safety and sanity to the people of God as they begin to possess the land.
What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God? God shows Himself to be true in the very plagues (Exodus 7-12), that He brings upon the Egyptians. His power and supremacy is demonstrated in an unmistakably way. His loving nature is too, in the way He protected the Israelites from all the plagues. The order of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27-30) also showed a lot about His character and nature. Order and beauty is God’s very nature and His character is shown in the exactitude in which He must be worshiped.
What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? The building of the tabernacle is a phenomenal foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross. "Build for me an altar made of earth, and offer your sacrifices to me . . . and I will come to you and bless you." Exodus 20:24. Another redemptive foreshadowing would be the blood painted on the door posts at the Passover. "When I see the blood, I will pass over you." Exodus 12:13.
What is an application from this book that God is asking me to apply to my life today? "Have the people of Israel build Me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." Exodus 25:8 Reading the set up of the tabernacle has always amazed me by the craftsmanship, the beauty, the details and great cooperation it took to make it what it was. And to also make it totally portable. I’m reminded by this book that my body is the tabernacle of God. I need to make it ready (holy), by disciplines and virtues, cooperation (submission) to God, and a heartfelt willingness to obey His will.
What can I take away from this book that helps me prepare for a future ministry or point of passion? God has the ability to navigate us through every trial, every dilemma, and every question we need an answer to. He came to Moses aid and gave him speech, understanding, discernment, and wisdom in dealing with the people he was leading. All this I can also have as I learn to depend on Him in everything.
Cindy Patrick
DBS Fall Quarter
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The most obvious thing would be the descriptions in the first 19 chapters describing the Israelites journey from bondage to deliverance. These chapters could well have been written for the new generation that was entering Canaan –the old having died within the time of the 40 year sojourn in the desert.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Just about everything! God speaks to Moses at great length and he witnesses God’s love, wisdom and understanding in helping set up rulings that he, Moses, will be able to use as he leads his people. Moses’ faithfulness and bravery to face God is very moving. His personal hurt when the Israelites continually show their lack of faith and understanding of God are indicative of how much Moses seeks to honor God and yet at the same time plead God’s forgiveness of his people’s waywardness.
What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the "main idea?" The laws are repeated twice–the first time by God, then by the narrator, Moses. Themes like keeping the Sabbath, the order of the tabernacle, faithfully relating events to future generations, God’s rescuing them from oppression are oft repeated themes. I borrow from SourceView the main idea; "God unfolds a nation’s destiny."
What is the primary reason this book was written? To set in motion a life of worship (tabernacle), and laws to bring safety and sanity to the people of God as they begin to possess the land.
What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God? God shows Himself to be true in the very plagues (Exodus 7-12), that He brings upon the Egyptians. His power and supremacy is demonstrated in an unmistakably way. His loving nature is too, in the way He protected the Israelites from all the plagues. The order of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27-30) also showed a lot about His character and nature. Order and beauty is God’s very nature and His character is shown in the exactitude in which He must be worshiped.
What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? The building of the tabernacle is a phenomenal foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross. "Build for me an altar made of earth, and offer your sacrifices to me . . . and I will come to you and bless you." Exodus 20:24. Another redemptive foreshadowing would be the blood painted on the door posts at the Passover. "When I see the blood, I will pass over you." Exodus 12:13.
What is an application from this book that God is asking me to apply to my life today? "Have the people of Israel build Me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." Exodus 25:8 Reading the set up of the tabernacle has always amazed me by the craftsmanship, the beauty, the details and great cooperation it took to make it what it was. And to also make it totally portable. I’m reminded by this book that my body is the tabernacle of God. I need to make it ready (holy), by disciplines and virtues, cooperation (submission) to God, and a heartfelt willingness to obey His will.
What can I take away from this book that helps me prepare for a future ministry or point of passion? God has the ability to navigate us through every trial, every dilemma, and every question we need an answer to. He came to Moses aid and gave him speech, understanding, discernment, and wisdom in dealing with the people he was leading. All this I can also have as I learn to depend on Him in everything.
Cindy Patrick
DBS Fall Quarter
Genesis
Genesis
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?The Original Reader would be the Hebrew nation who, having been ravaged by 400 years of Egyptian captivity, is now in desperate need to begin again. Genesis is addressing the Hebrew nation not only to their present reality–the return to a promised land- but the true story of their beginnings. A story that undoubtedly had been skewed by the pagan beliefs of Egypt.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? The author, believed to be Moses, was obviously called by God to not only lead a people out of their captivity, but by his intelligence of both the Egyptian and Hebrew way of life, compile oral and written accounts, with divine inspiration, of the beginnings in his first of five books called Genesis. The narrator seems to grieve with God over the state of His creation in verses such as 6:5 which expresses God’s grief over the wickedness of man, as well as the sensitive way in which a desperate Hagar met the Lord in Genesis 16:13.
What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the "main idea." Four themes; Creation, the fall, the flood, and the forming of nations comprise chapters 1-11, and the history of four people; Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph comprise the remainder of the book. God’s Redemption of man features strongest in this 2,196 year journey from creation to the death of Joseph.
What is the primary reason this book was written? To answer the question of where we have come from and where we are going. To be assured that no matter what happens, God has a plan and is faithful to fulfill it. Specifically, God is assuring his people that He can care for them, can change them, and that He can make them into a people whom "all the families on earth will be blessed." Genesis 12:3.
What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God? God’s character is one of an everlasting love. Even in the garden when already knowing Adam and Eve had sinned, He asks; "Where are you? . . . Who told you that you were naked?" Genesis 3:9-10. His nature is shown in the covering he provided for Adam and Eve; even the expulsion from the garden was a kindness so they wouldn’t eat of the Tree of Life; the promise of survival symbolized by the rainbow; "I will never again destroy all living things."
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? It seems this plan was revealed immediately after the fall. "I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head and you will strike his heel." Genesis 3:14.
What is an application from this book that God is asking me to apply in my life today? To not misunderstand Him. Learning about the deductive way of Bible study this week has vastly changed my view of the book of Genesis. Seeing the book from the "original readers" viewpoint has made it richer. I’ve had to humble down. As a result, The God of my life has loomed larger, more realistic, and more thoroughly loving though this week’s reading and study of Genesis. I no longer shake my head at the sins of my spiritual ancestors. We are all in this plan of salvation together.
What can I take away from this book that helps me prepare for a future ministry or Point of Passion? There is one verse in Genesis that has always touched me deeply–I believe it could be the foundation of my point of passion as it stirred in me the ministry of intercession.
"The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the
earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined
was consistently and totally evil. So the Lord was sorry he
had ever made them and put them on earth. It broke his heart." Genesis 6:5
Cindy Patrick DBS Fall Quarter, 2013
What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?The Original Reader would be the Hebrew nation who, having been ravaged by 400 years of Egyptian captivity, is now in desperate need to begin again. Genesis is addressing the Hebrew nation not only to their present reality–the return to a promised land- but the true story of their beginnings. A story that undoubtedly had been skewed by the pagan beliefs of Egypt.
What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? The author, believed to be Moses, was obviously called by God to not only lead a people out of their captivity, but by his intelligence of both the Egyptian and Hebrew way of life, compile oral and written accounts, with divine inspiration, of the beginnings in his first of five books called Genesis. The narrator seems to grieve with God over the state of His creation in verses such as 6:5 which expresses God’s grief over the wickedness of man, as well as the sensitive way in which a desperate Hagar met the Lord in Genesis 16:13.
What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the "main idea." Four themes; Creation, the fall, the flood, and the forming of nations comprise chapters 1-11, and the history of four people; Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph comprise the remainder of the book. God’s Redemption of man features strongest in this 2,196 year journey from creation to the death of Joseph.
What is the primary reason this book was written? To answer the question of where we have come from and where we are going. To be assured that no matter what happens, God has a plan and is faithful to fulfill it. Specifically, God is assuring his people that He can care for them, can change them, and that He can make them into a people whom "all the families on earth will be blessed." Genesis 12:3.
What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God? God’s character is one of an everlasting love. Even in the garden when already knowing Adam and Eve had sinned, He asks; "Where are you? . . . Who told you that you were naked?" Genesis 3:9-10. His nature is shown in the covering he provided for Adam and Eve; even the expulsion from the garden was a kindness so they wouldn’t eat of the Tree of Life; the promise of survival symbolized by the rainbow; "I will never again destroy all living things."
What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? It seems this plan was revealed immediately after the fall. "I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head and you will strike his heel." Genesis 3:14.
What is an application from this book that God is asking me to apply in my life today? To not misunderstand Him. Learning about the deductive way of Bible study this week has vastly changed my view of the book of Genesis. Seeing the book from the "original readers" viewpoint has made it richer. I’ve had to humble down. As a result, The God of my life has loomed larger, more realistic, and more thoroughly loving though this week’s reading and study of Genesis. I no longer shake my head at the sins of my spiritual ancestors. We are all in this plan of salvation together.
What can I take away from this book that helps me prepare for a future ministry or Point of Passion? There is one verse in Genesis that has always touched me deeply–I believe it could be the foundation of my point of passion as it stirred in me the ministry of intercession.
"The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the
earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined
was consistently and totally evil. So the Lord was sorry he
had ever made them and put them on earth. It broke his heart." Genesis 6:5
Cindy Patrick DBS Fall Quarter, 2013
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